Which character emphasizes the importance of following the laws of the state?

Creon is the character who emphasizes the importance of following the laws of the state in "Antigone." As the ruler of Thebes, he embodies the authority of the state and prioritizes the stability and order that governance provides. His position is clear in his insistence that laws created by the state must be upheld for the well-being of the city.

Creon believes that disobedience to these laws threatens the social order, and he makes it clear that any act of rebellion, especially concerning the burial of Polyneices, will not be tolerated. His commitment to the laws he establishes showcases his belief that loyalty to the state should prevail over personal loyalties or familial ties. This characterization not only reflects his legalistic view but also sets up a central conflict in the play, as it contrasts sharply with Antigone's moral stance on familial duty and divine law.

In contrast, Antigone represents the individual’s obligation to honor familial bonds and divine justice, while Ismene portrays a more cautious approach, hesitant to oppose Creon’s edicts. Haemon, Creon’s son, seeks a balance between respect for his father’s authority and his love for Antigone, advocating for a more compassionate view of law and